Health Library

Health Library

Amylase (Blood)

Does this test have other names?

Serum amylase

What is this test?

This test measures the level of the enzyme amylase in your blood.

About 40 percent of the amylase in your body is made by your pancreas, and the rest comes from your salivary glands. Amylase levels in your blood rise when your pancreas or your salivary glands are inflamed. This can be caused by an infection, cancer, or even alcohol or drugs you are taking.

Why do I need this test?

You might need this test to help your doctor diagnose or manage a medical condition. These conditions include:

What other tests might I have along with this test?

Your doctor may also order these tests:

Lipase

Tripsinogen

Hematocrit

Liver function tests

Abdominal CT

What do my test results mean?

Many things may affect your lab test results. These include the method each lab uses to do the test. Even if your test results are different from the normal value, you may not have a problem. To learn what the results mean for you, talk with your health care provider.

The normal range for amylase in a blood sample is 0 to 130 units per liter (U/L).

If your amylase levels are higher than normal, you may have one of a number of conditions. These include:

Acute pancreatitis, in which amylase levels are three times greater than normal

Pancreatic cancer

Abscess of the pancreas

Pancreatic pseudocysts

Ascites

Macroamylasemia

Perforated peptic ulcer

Intestinal infarction

Blockage in your intestines

Appendicitis

Acute cholecystitis

Ruptured ectopic pregnancy

Salivary gland inflammation

Peritonitis

Burns

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Renal insufficiency

Use of drugs such as morphine

Carcinomatosis of the lung, esophagus, or ovary

Alcohol use

Mumps

Prostate tumors

Eating disorders, such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa

Your levels may also be higher after a pancreatic procedure called a cholangiopancreatography.

Macroamylasemia, a benign condition that men may develop in their middle years

Kidney problems, especially kidney failure or recent transplant

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Alcoholism

Higher blood triglycerides, a type of fat, called hypertriglyceridemia

How is this test done?

The test requires a blood sample, which is drawn through a needle from a vein in your arm.

Does this test pose any risks?

Taking a blood sample with a needle carries risks that include bleeding, infection, bruising, or feeling dizzy. When the needle pricks your arm, you may feel a slight stinging sensation or pain. Afterward, the site may be slightly sore.

What might affect my test results?

Certain medications such as aspirin, drugs that contain estrogen, and opiates like morphine may affect your test results. Alcohol use can also affect your results. Pregnancy and having had a recent kidney transplant can also affect your results.

How do I get ready for this test?

You don't need to prepare for this test. But be sure your doctor knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illicit drugs you may use.

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